Honda Model X

2001 Detroit Auto Show

Jan 1, 2001

Yes, yes, we know. The Honda Model X is yet another vehicle produced with the stated intent of reaching that young, active, extreme-sports enthusiast. We suppose that's a more attractive image than trying to sell cars to fat, sedentary old folks, but— The regrettable Pontiac Aztek made the same claim last year. And the Nissan Xterra made it the year before that. Nonetheless, the Honda stand was complete with kids skateboarding, inline skating and riding BMX bikes. Where the Honda differs slightly from all the other X Games pandering is that it could (and probably will be) produced to sell for less than $18,000. So some of these young folks might actually be able to afford it. It's a neat little box of a concept though. The rear doors are hinged at the rear so when you open both front and rear doors, there's a huge opening in the side for easy access to the Spartan interior. Both the seats and floor are washable--those active guys get pretty dirty you know.